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HTTP ERROR 431: What Is It & How to Fix It
Discover verified solutions to fix the error!
5 min. read
Updated onJune 19, 2024
updated onJune 19, 2024
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Key notes
Errors when accessing the Internet are common. While some affect all the websites, others are specific to one or a few. The reason for the latter it’s notimproper network connectivityto blame but localized issues at the user’s end. One such is HTTP ERROR 431.
Generally encountered when accessing a website, the error can be seen on all major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Edge. Given that it falls under the 4** level, the problem is at the client’s end. Keep reading to find out solutions that worked for others!
What is HTTP Error 431?
HTTP ERROR 431, which reads,Request header fields too large, implies that the size of the header sent by the user is too big and, subsequently, it has been rejected by the server. In this case, an ideal course of action would be to reduce the size of the headers.
But it’s not as complex as it appears. While the definition states jargon, the underlying causes and the fixes are relatively simple. Here are the former:
How do I fix HTTP Error 431?
Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:
If none work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Clear the browsing data
One of the quickest ways to fix HTTP ERROR 431 is to clear the browsing data, both the cache and cookies. In case you don’t want to lose other critical information, there’s also the option to clear data specifically for the problematic website.
2. Remove third-party extensions
For those wondering how to fix HTTP ERROR 431 in Chrome and other browsers, an effective solution is to disable all third-party extensions, especially those from unreliable sources.
3. Flush the DNS cache
DNS, orDomain Name System, is a critical directory that helps that device identify the corresponding address when you enter the website’s name. And when its cache is corrupt, chances are the HTTP ERROR 431 may appear. So, flushing it will do the trick.
4. Create a new browser profile
HTTP errors often arise due to issues with a user profile, and in this case, it’s best to create a new one rather than identifying and fixing the underlying cause, which is time taking.
5. Reinstall the browser
That’s it! If the previous solutions didn’t work, reinstalling the browser will fix HTTP ERROR 431 in no time. Sadly, this isn’t the only error you can encounter, and many reported406 Not acceptable erroron their devices.
Besides, you could use aneffective uninstaller softwareto clear any registry entries or leftover files with the browser before initiating a fresh install. Before you leave, check some quicktips to increase the Internet speedin Windows.
This is one of many error you can encounter, and speaking of which, many users reportedError parsing HTTP request header, but we covered that one in-depth in another guide.
For any queries or to share more solutions with us, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:Browser errors,internet connection errors
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
